American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) for Energy and Vitality

American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is a root with beneficial medicinal properties used widely throughout the United States.

It is distinguished from Korean or Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) by a slightly different chemical makeup, although both contain the active ingredient ginsenosides.

This species should not be confused with Siberian ginseng (Eleuthero, Eleutherococcus senticosus) which is from a different plant family and contains distinct compounds producing dissimilar effects.

American Ginseng was used by Native Americans for its mild stimulant properties, providing energy and physical vitality. The knotted roots of the plant are used as a traditional remedy for headaches, fever, stomach problems and infertility.

Recent research has identified benefits of American Ginseng for the treatment of cancer, ADHD, and diabetes and as an immune system booster. It is regarded as an adaptogen, helping to promote homeostasis in the body and increasing protections against external stressors.

The roots of the plant contain the majority of active phytochemicals, including ginsenosides and polysaccharide glycans (quinquefolans A, B, and C).

The plant must be grown for 6 years before the roots can be harvested for use in supplements. Due to the endangered nature of this plant, it can be very expensive to harvest and the Korean Ginseng may be a more economical option.

Dried American Ginseng root is available in several different forms for use as a dietary supplement.

It can be found in capsules and tablets with pre-measured dosages. It is also commonly sold in a liquid tincture form, with active ingredients from the plant extracted in either water or alcohol. Some specialty herbalist stores will sell bulk ginseng powder which can be prepared in a number of ways.

There are also several supplement formulations that combine American Ginseng with other herbs for energy, mental focus, immune system support and more.

When looking to buy American Ginseng supplements, be sure that the label identifies the type of ginseng you are purchasing as Panax quinquefolius. Any supplements that contain red ginseng or Panax ginseng typically provide the Asian or Korean strain of this plant which is the more researched of the two species.

While the effects are similar, there may be slight differences in the chemical composition and in the concentration of active ingredients across the two species. Anecdotally, the Panax Ginseng species is said to be more stimulating than the American Ginseng plant.

Uses of North American Ginseng

As an adaptogen, one of the most prominent uses for American Ginseng root extract is to boost the function of the immune system.

It is often taken as a preventative supplement for non-specific illnesses and diseases, to help the body fight off infections. There have been studies showing it can support the performance of immune system cells.

North American Ginseng is the main ingredient in the COLD-FX product which is designed to protect against cold symptoms. In two trials, individuals who took COLD-FX reported fewer colds than those given a placebo for a four month period. Furthermore, those that did catch colds reported that their symptoms were less severe and did not last as long as those given the placebo.

A number of studies have shown that ginseng can reduce fasting and post-prandial blood sugar in individuals diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes.

In one study, participants who were given a high-sugar drink saw less of a spike in blood glucose when given American ginseng before consuming the drink. Another study on mice found that the effects were more prominent when administering the ginseng berries instead of the root extract.

Additional research suggests that American ginseng can inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors. In one study on colorectal cancer cells, ginseng was found to slow the progression of the cancer when administered in vitro.

While these laboratory results are promising, more research in clinical settings is necessary to validate these findings. The same is true for research showing benefits of American Ginseng for ADHD, mental performance, aging, inflammatory diseases and more.

American Ginseng Side Effects

Side effects are generally rare, but may be exacerbated with excess dosages or when combined with interacting supplements or drugs. Some negative effects reported include diarrhea, vomiting, headache, high blood pressure, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, irritability, nosebleed, breast sensitivity and vaginal spotting.

In some cases, taking American Ginseng can result in hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, which can cause dizziness, fainting, lack of motor control and other health problems. To avoid this side effects, the supplement should be taken with food or following a meal.

If you have a history of low blood glucose levels, speak to your doctor to determine whether this supplement is appropriate for you.

North American ginseng may act as a blood thinner and should not be combined with other drugs that have anti-coagulant effects. Use of this herb should be discontinued one to two weeks prior to surgery to prevent problems related to increased risk of bleeding.

Individuals with high blood pressure or hypotension should be under doctor’s supervision when using American ginseng.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid this and other herbal supplements, unless directed to take them under the guidance of a qualified physician. Women with a history of breast cancer and other hormone conditions are cautioned against the use of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius).

Finally, individuals with bipolar disorder should also avoid this supplement due to the increased risk of manic episodes.

OVERVIEW: Panax quinquefolis (American ginseng) is part of the Panax genus, which also includes Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). American ginseng is also known as North American Ginseng, Canadian Ginseng, and Ontario Ginseng. Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is not related to American or Asian ginseng. READ MORE...

MECHANISM: The root of the American ginseng plant contains compounds known as ginsenosides. Certain ginsenosides have been shown to have antidiabetic, cardiovascular, and immune-enhancing effects. READ MORE...

DOSAGE: 100-1000 mg per day; taken twice daily.

SIDE EFFECTS: Rated as Likely Safe when used orally and at appropriate dosages in the short-term. Few side effects have been reported at suggested dosage. Headaches have been reported in rare cases. READ MORE...

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